Cognitive Problems in CFIDS & FM

Most CFIDS and FM patients suffer from cognitive difficulties. This is also referred to as “fibro fog” or “brain fog”. Examples of cognitive problems include problems with short-term memory, difficulty finding the right words to complete sentences, severe concentration impairment, and confusion. There can be several things that will cause your brain fog to be worse. Please refer to the list below to see when your symptoms are at their worst.

Poor Sleep

Overexertion

Stress

Multi-tasking

Over-stimulation such as to noise, light, etc.

Hunger

Side effects from meds

Ways you can minimize cognitive difficulties are by picking your best time of the day to do chores, etc.

Cancel any activities if you are mentally not up to it. Do not push yourself. Pushing yourself mentally is just as bad as pushing yourself physically.

Make lists and reminders as you think of things that need to be done, or to schedule out your day.

Create a routine for yourself – this way, you don’t have to think so much – you just do it by routine.